The Bryan-Morrey Triceps-Sparing Approach to Open Reduction of T-Condylar Humeral Fractures in Adolescents

Nine patients who underwent open reduction of a T-condylar distal humerus fracture through a Bryan-Morrey triceps-sparing approach were evaluated for triceps function and elbow motion. The average follow-up was 3 years 5 months. The average range of motion was −8 degrees to 136 degrees. Measured by Cybex testing, the average triceps deficit compared with the uninvolved arm was 6% at 60 degrees/sec, 7% at 120 degrees/sec, and 10% at 180 degrees/sec. Compared with another study that tested triceps function after open reduction with the Campbell triceps-splitting approach, no statistically significant difference in function or range of motion was found. In this small series, early postoperative continuous passive motion was found to significantly increase range of motion. The Bryan-Morrey triceps-sparing approach can be used in children and adolescents who require open reduction for T-condylar distal humeral fractures.